Are Home Warranties Worth It for Potomac Residents?
Home warranties are worth it for Potomac residents. Potomac summers can have some very hot days, which means it's important that your air conditioner works well. However, this system can malfunction over time from heavy use.
Winters in Potomac can be mild, but there are still days when you rely on your heating. HVAC system replacement can cost from $2,500 to $8,000. Home warranties, on the other hand, run about $644–$737 per year, based on 120 quotes we requested from home warranty companies across the nation.
The regular rain in Potomac can damage your roof. Some home warranty policies include limited roof-leak coverage, which can ease the financial burden of roof repair. Lastly, your home warranty will connect you with trustworthy service providers.
Investing in a reputable home warranty company is worth it because companies vet their technicians. If you don't have time to do the research yourself, your home warranty company can give you peace of mind that someone reliable will handle your issue.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Home Warranty Company
Consider these important factors when selecting your home warranty plan.
Cost
We requested 120 quotes for a 2,000-square-foot, single-family home and found that home warranties cost an average of $53–$62 per month. There are also service call fees that apply each time you file a claim. These fees range from $65–$125 per claim. Basic home warranty plans are more affordable than comprehensive ones. Appliance plans are typically less costly than home systems coverage plans. Most plans offer add-on coverage options for an additional monthly fee. Consider your particular needs before committing to a plan.
Coverage
Most home warranties can be somewhat customized to your needs. Think about which appliances and systems you use often and want covered. If you only want coverage for select appliances or systems (such as your air conditioning), you can often find plans to fit. Here is a list of common systems coverage:
- Air conditioner
- Central vacuum
- Ductwork
- Electrical
- Heating
- Plumbing
- Water heater
- Built-in microwaves
- Clothes washers and dryers
- Dishwashers
- Garbage disposals
- Ovens
- Refrigerators
- Stovetops
Exclusions
Most home warranties cover only normal wear and tear, which excludes preexisting conditions and improper installation. Additionally, most policies will exclude appliance components or cosmetic issues, defects, routine maintenance, or theft. Each provider outlines exclusions and limitations within its service contract. Make sure you read it and understand your plan's specific terms and conditions.
Provider Reputation
Also, consider provider reputation when choosing a plan. You can read customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Best Company or look at a company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Reviews and ratings are a great way to learn how providers handle customer service and claims. Check with the Maryland Consumer Protection Division to verify a provider's state license.
Contractor Network
Consider a home warranty company's service provider network. Make sure you ask your company how and where it sources technicians. A reputable company should use licensed and registered contractors to handle service requests. We recommend picking a provider that mentions the names of familiar service contractors. Rural homeowners should consider choosing a home warranty provider that lets customers pick their technicians. It's good to have the option to source your own providers if there are no in-network ones available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Warranty in Potomac
Is a home warranty required in Potomac?
What are preexisting conditions?
What is the best home warranty provider in Potomac?
Do home warranties cover other types of home items?
Why is there a waiting period before my home warranty coverage begins?
How can I maximize the value of my home warranty?
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